PhD Position in Computational Mathematics and Statistics: Activity-Based Modelling of Transport and Energy Use Umeå University in Sweden

Umeå University, one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions, is renowned for its world-leading research and dynamic academic environment. The Department of Mathematics and Mathematical Statistics is offering a fully funded PhD position in computational mathematics and statistics, with a focus on activity-based modelling of transport and energy use. This position is part of the interdisciplinary research project "Energy transition in everyday life – from vision to reality," which aims to develop models and methods to analyse how everyday activities, travel behaviour, and energy use impact local energy systems. The project is conducted in collaboration with KTH Royal Institute of Technology, the Municipality of Umeå, and Umeå Energi.

The doctoral student will contribute to the development of an activity-based model for the Umeå region, based on the transport model Scaper. Responsibilities include integrating data on activities, transport, and energy use, developing and calibrating models, and analysing scenarios related to electrification of transport, electric vehicle charging, and changing activity patterns. The research environment is highly interdisciplinary, involving close collaboration with municipal and regional stakeholders. The project aims to provide decision-support and planning tools for sustainable energy and transport systems, with direct relevance to societal planning and the ongoing energy transition in northern Sweden.

Applicants must have a completed second-cycle degree or equivalent (at least 240 ECTS credits, including 60 at the second-cycle level), and at least 90 ECTS credits in computational mathematics and statistics or closely related fields, with 30 credits at the second-cycle level. Strong knowledge of statistics, data analysis, machine learning, mathematical modelling, and programming skills in Python, Matlab, C#, or similar languages are required. Experience with computational methods for modelling, simulation, or data analysis, as well as numerical analysis, optimisation, and operations research, is essential. Excellent proficiency in English is required; proficiency in Swedish is a strong merit. Experience with large datasets, activity-based transport models, agent-based simulation, transport modelling, energy system analysis, or GIS is considered a merit. Previous research experience, such as a master's thesis or participation in research projects, is highly valued. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical abilities, motivation, and effective collaboration skills.

The position is intended to result in a doctoral degree and covers four years of full-time study, or up to five years with part-time teaching (not exceeding 20% of the post). Salary is set according to the university’s PhD salary ladder. Employment commences in August 2026 or by agreement. The Department values gender balance and encourages female applicants. Applications must be submitted via the university’s recruitment system by May 24th, 2026. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, authenticated copies of degree certificates and transcripts, relevant work (such as a master's thesis or articles), GMAT/GRE and TOEFL/IELTS scores if available, and contact details for at least two references. All documents should be written in English or Swedish.

Umeå is a vibrant, student-friendly city with a strong cultural scene and easy access to nature. The university’s cohesive campus fosters collaboration and knowledge exchange, making it an ideal environment for academic and personal growth. For further information about the department, visit the department website. For questions about the position, contact Associate Professor Jonas Westin at [email protected].